As part of my field work for my upcoming review of the Nikon 1 J5 I went out today to take some flower images. While I usually hate using a camera without a viewfinder, the Nikon 1 J5 is actually very well suited for this type of subject matter. Composing images from the rear screen is a very comfortable way to frame flower images when shooting hand-held and using extension tubes.
NOTE: Click on images to enlarge.
All of the images in this article were taken with the Nikon 1 J5 hand-held with the Nikon 1 30-110 mm f/3.8-5.6 lens and a Vello 16 mm extension tube.
Since Nikon 1 J5 profiles were not available for the software I use at the time of initially writing this article all of the original images used were out-of-camera jpegs with some very minor tweaking done to them. Many of the images are displayed as 100% captures while others have had some cropping done to them.
I have updated all of the images with versions produced using RAW files and my standard post processing workflow. As expected working with the RAW files was simply a joy.
I used the PRIME noise reduction function in OpticsPro 10 for all of the updated images in this article.
The Nikon 1 J5 has a brand new 20 MP BSI sensor. DxOMark testing has indicated that this new sensor has much improved dynamic range and colour depth. So, I looked for high contrast scenes and often shot with at least part of the subject flower in bright sunlight in order to put this new sensor through its paces in real-world conditions.
The Nikon 1 J5 sensor also does not have a low pass filter. This should improve overall image sharpness so I took a number of images to try to see how much detail was retained.
At times it was quite breezy so you will notice that some of the images are taken at higher shutter speeds.
I shot using single point AF so I could position my focusing point in the most critical part of the frame. I shot in manual mode most of the time and used matrix metering, as well as auto-ISO.
I found that the auto-focus with the J5 was very quick and accurate and I could grab focus on fast moving insects like the fly in the above image.
And, here is a 100% crop of the fly so you can see how much detail was retained.
The RAW files producing with the new 20 MP BSI sensor are excellent and are a significant improvement over those produced by the Aptina sensors in previous Nikon 1 models.
Compared to my Nikon 1 V2’s the new sensor did a much better job holding onto highlights under bright, high contrast lighting, and the colour rendition seemed richer. Have a look at the image below, shot in bright, direct sunlight.
The new BSI CX sensor in the Nikon 1 J5 is a godsend. It helps to eliminate one of the biggest knocks against the Nikon 1 system which has been image quality.
Nikon really needs to showcase the performance of this new sensor to get over all of the bad press the Nikon 1 product line has had since it was launched.
I think the future of the Nikon 1 product line is now much brighter with the new BSI sensor. Many enthusiasts and pros who have been using the V-series of Nikon 1 cameras will be eagerly anticipating a Nikon 1 V4. I hope that Nikon addresses the design quirks of the V3 and integrates the EVF and grip.
It also would be great if Nikon stopped using those silly micro-SD cards in the Nikon 1 product line – or at the very least in the V-series cameras – but that is probably too much to ask for.
Although I would personally never buy a Nikon 1 J5 because of the absence of an EVF, many people will enjoy the improved performance and functionality of the Nikon 1 J5. When matched up with the Nikon 1 30-110 mm lens and a set of extension tubes the J5 is ideally suited for flower photography, creating very good quality images and is a lot of fun to use.
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Hello,
I have one Question, can anybody please help with information using a mount adapter FT1 for a Nikon 1 J5, I want to buy a Nikon 70 -300mm lens but don’t know which one would be appropriate as there are so many and some don’t work at all with the functions the lenses have to offer. I want to be able to use A/F mode and other functions also, I have read about how some lenses don’t work for certain camera bodies. I have to say I am totally confused, can some one please shed some light on this ? And what lens would work all round.
Thank you in advance Fotios Fakos
Hi Fotios,
Here is a link to the compatible Nikkor lenses when using the FT-1 adapter with a Nikon 1 camera body. There are some restrictions when using the J5 as you will see on the list. https://imaging.nikon.com/lineup/acil/lenses/mount_adapter_ft1/compatibility.htm
When using the FT-1 and F-Mount lenses you will be limited to one focus point in centre screen that cannot be moved. If you can find a 1 Nikon CX 70-300 mm f/4.5-5.6 it may be a better choice as you will get full use of all focusing points on the J5. By the time you purchase an FT-1 adapter and an F-Mount 70-300 lens you likely won’t save that much money.
Tom
Hi Tom,
Ok, so I went for the J5 as I managed to get a really good deal and I figure I can play with it and go for a V4 body when it comes and at least I will be able to transfer the lenses. Went out today to play with it at a butterfly house but ended up getting really frustrated as I just couldn’t get the close-up focus I was wanting using the 30-110 lens. Have I done something wrong in settings do you think? or is it the lack of extension tubes? I was just getting a blur. No focus ring on the lens….have I just made a terrible mistake! or a mere ignorant blunder?!
Hi Holly,
You will need extension tubes to be able to focus close up. I have a set of MOVO tubes that work well and cost about $50 US. The minimum focusing distance using the 30-110 lens without extension tubes is about 3 feet or so…with extension tubes you’ll be able to get about 15 inch focusing distance.
Tom
Thanks Tom, that explains it. Don’t know if they are available in UK will look,t thank you. Struggling with a desire to put my eye to the non existing EVF much to the amusement of others! Sooner the V4 comes out the better! Thanks for all your help and Happy shooting
x
Hi Holly,
In terms of lacking an EVF a possible solution for you would be to buy a Hoodman loupe, or something similar, and attach it to the back of your J5. It is not an elegant solution but many folks find it works for them. I’d go to a camera store and try it out before making the investment though.
Tom
Loving these beautiful clear images Tom. I was doodling around on the internet researching what my best options are for macro shots…I have a Nikon d7100 with a Nikon VR 18-300 lens which i have been really pleased with ( although just found out the 7200 came out shortly before I purchased it which is rumoured to be even better…sods law!). My problem is that it is pretty bulky to take away on holiday…makes travelling light an almost impossibility… Plus I really like being able to shoot upclose and it just will not go there. Have been using a smart phone for this purpose with some reasonable results but full size they become very pixelated. So what’s my best bet…a new lens for the d7100 or a Nikon V or J plus a choice of lenses? Articles are a minefield of anachronism and jargon and I just get lost!
All help/advice appreciated, Holly
Hi Holly,
I think the answer to your question is a bit bigger than a breadbox as you have a wide range of options to consider. If you’re looking for smaller, lighter gear to take on holidays you could consider Nikon 1 as well as a range of micro 4/3 brands. There are also some nice bridge cameras with built-in zoom lenses and macro capability that you could consider. There are lots of very good cameras out there so I understand that it can be confusing.
Our friends Mathieu and Heather at Mirrorlessons.com do a great job with reviews of various mirror-less cameras and lenses so if you are looking to buy some new gear their site is a good place to start if you want to consider mirrorless options like Olympus, Sony, Panasonic etc.
One of your least expensive options is simply to buy a set of extension tubes for your existing Nikon gear and see how they work with you D7100 and Nikkor 18-300 lens. You may find that they give you the magnification effect you are seeking without having to spend a bunch of money on new gear. You could also consider a dedicated macro lens…Nikon and some of the third party makers like Tamron have lenses you could consider. I used to own a Nikkor 105 Micro f/2.8 which is quite a nice lens, although it is a bit heavy.
All of the close-up images in the article were shot with a Nikon 1 telephoto zoom lens (i.e. 30-110mm with an equivalent-field-of-view of 81-297mm) with a set of extension tubes, which is similar to your existing Nikkor 18-300 so extension tubes may be all you need.
I think the first thing you need to do is to clarify your exact needs before you buy anything. If ‘small and light for travel’ is your main focus then looking at smaller sensor formats like the Nikon 1 and/or M4/3 could make sense. If your primary need is more ‘macro-type’ images then extension tubes, special close-up filters, or a dedicated macro lens may make more sense. If you want to do both then Nikon 1 or M4/3 cameras with either a dedicated macro lens or extension tubes would likely make the most sense.
Tom
You’re a star Tom, thanks for taking the time to reply so fully. I will check out the mirrorlessons site and consider lighter options for travel and meanwhile see if I can find some tubes to play with on the d7100 mount (suggestions/ reliable brand? You recommended Movo in one of your articles but they don’t seem to be available in the UK… Are the velo mounts better now or do Velo not make correct mount size for D7100?)
I like using Nikon and have been loyal to the brand for some time now so probably would go for 1 series. But why oh why is there so much price difference between V and J systems?! They look so similar. Is it a matter of build quality?
Thanks for your help
Holly
Hi Holly,
If you are going to consider a Nikon 1 camera I would look for a V2 model or wait for the V4 to be introduced later this year. The detachable EVF and grip on the V3 make it prohibitively expensive, and I don’t think there is enough of a performance difference over the V2 to warrant the additional money.
I’d ask some other DSLR users who have extension tubes what make works for them. I no longer shoot with DSLR’s so I’m not as current as other folks will be in terms of accessory gear. The Vello tubes have not been updated as far as I know and the ones for Nikon 1 are still prone to mount cracking and breaking so I’d likely steer clear of them.
If you think you could get used to composing from the rear panel of a camera the J5 is a very nice, affordable camera. It also features the new 20.8MP BSI sensor which is significantly better than the Aptina sensors in other Nikon 1 models in terms of dynamic range and colour depth. If you shoot a lot of landscapes, flowers and other types of static subjects there is quite a noticeable difference. The J5 is also good for macro type images. Unless you’re going to shoot a lot of birds in flight or other moving subjects the J5 may work well for you.
Tom
Hi Tom, I was stunned by the difference in price between J5 and V3… But there doesn’t seem any definite plan for a V4 to be released or any guide as to what the price is likely to be when/if it comes. I’d be tempted by the J5 if only it had EVF…I just hate that prohibitive glare you get on a screen outdoors when you end up not being able to see what you’re trying to shoot at all. EVF does away with that problem.
Again, thanks so much for your advice. I will continue to follow your site and enjoy your output.
All the best
Holly
Hi Holly,
Always glad to help! The rear screen on the J5 does tilt and that helps to eliminate glare, although it won’t eliminate it completely. Like you, I’d rather have a camera with a viewfinder. If you want to ‘test out’ the Nikon 1 system finding a V2 may be a good initial route. I have three of them and did not buy a V3 as I did not see sufficient difference in performance to justify the price.
I still expect a V4 to be launched in 2016. I’m hoping that Nikon fixes some of its rather strange design choices with the V3, making the V4 with an integrated grip and EVF. I would also love it if they would do away with use of micro-SD cards. I think a 40% price differential with the J5 could be expected and would likely price a V4 kit in the $800 to $850 range. I think if Nikon pushes the price beyond this level they will really hurt sales potential.
Tom
Micro SD! What were they thinking!
Thanks again
Hi Holly,
Yup…strange design choice which I hope they correct in future models…although that’s what the J5 uses.
Tom
Hi Tom, Trolling around on the internet I have discovered a V3 someone is selling for around £200 with the 10-30 lens -no EVF:(. The question then becomes one of price v build : I could get a j5 for similar money with the better sensor and higher pixels or go for competitively priced V3 with the more limited pixs. Can you trade off a less advances sensor for good lenses? Thanks
Hi Holly,
If you can live without the EVF I would choose the J5 as the sensor is much better than the one in the V3. It has more dynamic range, better colour depth and will be marginally better in low light. I found that there wasn’t sufficient difference between the V2 and V3 for me to upgrade to a V2. So, another option would be a good V2 with a low shutter count. The V2 has a built-in EVF.
Tom
First of all, thank you for those great pictures and this well written article. m(_ _)m
I’ve actually decided to buy a J5 a few month ago since I was looking for something small, versatile and rather inexpensive for times when I don’t want to carry my heavy D600 around. Admittedly the lack of a viewfinder gave me great headaches too, but after shooting about 1000 pictures those have almost disappeared.
I’ve also used the 30-110mm lens for some flower and insect photography, and was delighted by the results – however for some reason it never occurred to me that there are extension tubes for this small cam until your article pointed it out! I’ll try to get those as soon as possible because I’m really keen to experiment a bit more with macro-photography using the tiny J5.
So, thank you again for providing me with new info and inspiration!
Hi Jeorg,
I’m glad that you enjoyed the article and images! Thank you for your positive and supportive comment as well! I just published a few articles including a hands-on review of the Movo Extension Tubes for Nikon 1. You may want to spend a bit of time reading those articles as they’ll give you more information on the extension tubes and their use.
I originally shot with Vello extension tubes but I’ve been experiencing some durability issues with them as they have plastic mounts which are prone to cracking and breaking. The Movo tubes I just reviewed have metal mounts and I think they are a better choice.
Tom
Thanks again, Thomas.
I’ll check your review of the Movo tubes too!
^__^/~
Thanks again for sharing these images. You’re a photographer of many talents. What I found startling is the depth of focus at f/5.6. For flowers using my two Nex 7 coupled with a Zeiss Touit 50/2.8 macro, or my Micro Nikkor 55/3.5 or my Minolta Maxxum 100/2.8 macro, I need f/16 for similar, or even less, DOF. How do you think the limits of diffraction compare, your V1 lens at f/5.6 vs. an APS sized lens at F/16? By the way, the vintage Micro Nikkor, from 1971, imparts terrible blue tint which must be severely adjusted in processing RAW files.
Hi Richard,
Thank you for your kind words, they are most appreciated!
Diffraction is absolutely noticeable at f/11 with my V2’s as can be expected, and somewhat noticeable at f/8. Regardless of the Nikon 1 lens used there is really no effect from diffraction at all at f/5.6 with my V2 bodies. I’m not sure if that holds for the V3 or J5 sensors as they have higher pixel density. Likely the absence of a low pass filter helps.
As far as diffraction on an APS sensor body…I haven’t shot with one for a while so it is hard for me to remember and I don’t have any current files. The pixel density on the APS sensor would have some effect and I expect that higher pixel density sensors would show a bit more diffraction effect at any given f/stop.
I can say that shooting with my V2’s at f/5.6 is roughly equivalent to shooting at f/16 on my D800 in terms of depth of field. This is really due to the focal length of the lenses that would be used to achieve comparative fields of view. For example I shot the images in this article with the Nikon 1 30-110mm lens which has an equivalent field of view of 81-297mm on a full frame body. Due to the small size of the CX sensor I’m getting the ‘reach’ of a 300mm lens on a full frame body, but the depth of field of a 110mm lens.
At f/16 my D800 would show obvious signs of diffraction where I get none at f/5.6 with my V2’s.
Tom
Using APS format 24 mp Sony Nex 7 for flowers I’m finding the better DOF at f/16 trumps the lesser diffraction at f/11, at least to my eye, lab tests notwithstanding. Tom, your results with even smaller sensor of Nikon V series at f/5.6 are astounding for DOF. Now if Nikon made a Micro Nikkor in this format…..
Hi Richard,
When Nikon introduced the CX line up they had a prototype of a macro lens. This is the only lens from the original ‘lens roadmap’ that has not yet been introduced. For all we know it could be just around the corner.
Tom
Great images. Thanks for sharing.
Interesting to see how good the jpegs are.
Glad you enjoyed them Anders!
Tom
I like to sit well back from my screen, and therefore increase the text to a readable size from there (I’m using Safari on a Mac), which works well (using the full screen width) with the sites of Thom Hogan, Nasim Mansarov, Kirk Tuck etc. – but with your site (unlike theirs) the central text column remains at about 25% of the screen width, so I’m having to read 2-4 words per line. Perhaps I’m missing something?
Hi John,
I will check with my webmaster to see if there’s anything we can do about that in terms of formatting. It may be something that is locked in because of the WordPress format we are using.
Tom
Beautiful work Tom. Your experience is consistent with my own re the J5. The camera is a treat, although I would not buy a camera without a viewfinder either. When I did my own tests, I did shoot in RAW and processed in Lightroom CC and the RAW files are excellent.
I very much liked your perspective on using an extension tube for closeup and how that changed the viability of using the LCD as a viewfinder. One could, I expect, elastic a Hoodman with 3x magnifier lens to the J5 if one really needed a viewfinder and the Hoodman is alway in my go bag.
Cheers,
Ross
Hi Ross,
Thanks for your positive comment – I’m glad you enjoyed the images! It is great to hear that you thought the RAW files were excellent. I think this will allow owners to get every ounce of image quality out of the new BSI sensor. Using a hoodman or Z-Finder is likely a good idea.
Tom
Tom — Outstanding work. The J5 has been impressive by all counts since release. I have looked at it a number of times almost ready to click buy. I am in NYC next week and will swing by B&H and hope they have a few in stock. They are OUT right now.
I too, like Goran above, really want an EVF but on my recent trip to Disneyland I found myself stripping my v3 (sans grip and EVF) and guess what. The world didn’t come to a screeching halt! This, with the kit 10-30mm made a small, light perfect companion for family shots at Disney.
I know the J5 IQ is better and the setup would have been a touch smaller!
B&H – I need stock! I guess others have figured out they N1 J5 got a few things right too. Price for one seems in the right spot. An impressive camera.
As are showing with OOC JPEG’s this new sensor (likely Sony) is really giving a great IQ boost to DR and ISO capabilities. Can’t wait to see RAW once DXO has the J5 setups done.
Mike
Hi Mike,
I’m glad you enjoyed the images – and thanks for your positive comment!
The J5 is quite an impressive, little camera. The new sensor really makes a big difference with image quality and I think that change in performance will take the Nikon 1 system up a couple of notches in people’s minds…and find a lot more wallets opening!
There will always be folks who judge a camera on sensor size, and they will still knock the J5, and likely future Nikon 1 cameras that will use this BSI sensor. That’s their loss, as they’ll miss out on a really nice, little camera. The functionality is also improved with the PASM dial, rear wheel control, and a front-mounted function button that adjusts ISO.
Tom
Thank you Tom for sharing. Your pictures are, as always, first class. I use V1 and V2. I also promised myself to NOT buy a Nikon 1 without EVF. But when J5 was introduced I could not resist. Lightroom CC/6 does support the J5 (also ACR). DxO told me they will add support for J5 within a month.
I find the quality to be excellent. Handling is also first rate. I have taken some 1500 shots. Unless I have done something stupid, every frame is well exposed and sharp. Some of my shooting is done at waist level a la Rolleiflex. I also always carry a Hoodman. It makes a reasonable eye-level finder, particularly with the 70-300.
If there will be a V4 with same or better performance I will replace my V1 and V2
Keep up the good work/Goran
I’m glad you liked the images Goran, and thanks for your supportive comment! I’m very much looking forward to J5 support with OpticsPro. I think that will increase the quality I can get from the J5 files quite a bit.
Like you, I found that I had very few missed shots as long as I didn’t do something silly. I’m really looking forward to the V4 and hopefully we’ll see that sooner rather than later from Nikon!
Tom
Dear Goran,
Like you I’m a big fan of Thomas. I found your mention of the Rolleiflex viewing position very interesting. I also used a Rolleiflex and feel the ergonomics of that position were unparalleled. Do you think you could post a photo of the Hoodman mounted on the J5 monitor where it makes a “reasonable eye-level viewfinder”?